Chicago Bears Draft: Pros and cons of Quenton Nelson at no. 8
By Ryan Heckman
Bottom Line
Here is the bottom line: Nelson is probably one of the safest bets in this year’s draft class. That’s just what he is. While safe isn’t always the best route to go — Pace typically navigates away from that word — Nelson’s talent is undeniable. He is a sure-fire, hands down top-5 player in the draft. I might even put him in the top three.
Oddly enough, four of the top seven picks will likely be quarterbacks because it is such a premier position in football. The Bears are going to luck out, most likely, and have a shot to land the best offensive lineman in all of the 2018 class.
Nelson is a monster. He’s stronger than most at his position. He’s like an immovable object in the run game. He’s nearly as good in pass protection. The Bears have a second-year, mobile, accurate quarterback who needs another guard in front of him. The Bears also have one of the best, most diverse backfields in the entire league. Nelson’s former offensive line coach is now the new coach at the same position for the Bears.
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How much more of a perfect marriage could you have here? I mean, let’s be honest, Nelson is an absolutely fantastic selection at no. 8. I have a feeling that Pace can still find a hidden gem or two later in the draft to help address the wide receiver group as well as an additional linebacker, and they might end up going pass rusher in round two.
Overall, it’s tough to see how the Bears lose by picking Nelson. I’m sorry to all of those guys who repeatedly preach, “You don’t take a guard that high,” but my goodness, Nelson is just too good.
He’s too good!
There you have it. I’m on the Nelson train — and you should be too.